Research on the drugs used to treat cancer and how well they work. Covers immunotherapy, chemotherapy-free regimens, biosimilars, targeted drugs, and treatment costs.
Researchers at the University of Delaware have developed a new process that triggers targeted reactions using red or near-infrared light or a tiny dose of an enzyme. This breakthrough has significant implications for medicine and engineering, particularly in drug delivery and tissue engineering.
A new study from Mount Sinai researchers reports a high success rate for a personalized medicine program that uses an integrated genomic approach to guide cancer treatment. The program led to therapeutic recommendations for 91% of patients, outperforming targeted cancer panels in clinical use.
Scientists from Gladstone Institutes identified salicylic acid's cancer-fighting properties by inhibiting epigenetic regulators p300 and CBP. Salicylic acid suppresses inflammation and cell growth, offering new clinical possibilities for drugs like aspirin and diflunisal.
Researchers have synthesized a new drug, HA15, that reduces melanoma cell viability without being toxic to normal cells. This breakthrough discovery has the potential to improve treatment outcomes for patients with skin cancer.
A new blood test has identified a subset of patients with stomach cancer who are most likely to respond to treatment. The test measures the number of copies of the FGFR2 gene in cancer DNA circulating in the bloodstream, revealing that tumours with many copies of this gene were particularly susceptible to an experimental drug.
Scientists have made a breakthrough in visualizing proteins involved in cancer cell metabolism using cryo-EM. They were able to capture images of glutamate dehydrogenase at an atomic level, revealing new insights into potential drug targets. This discovery has the potential to revolutionize and accelerate the drug discovery process.
SWOG investigators report on clinical trials for lung, prostate, breast, and other cancers, including Lung-MAP precision medicine trial. Trial results also highlight the reliability of CT scan tumor measurements for evaluating new drug effectiveness.
A Mayo Clinic study analyzed 55 cancer drugs approved using surrogate endpoints, finding that many lacked formal empirical verification. The FDA's reliance on these surrogates may compromise patient outcomes and drug safety.
Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute have identified a new regulator of immune responses, PSGL-1, which acts as a negative regulator of T cell function. The study found that PSGL-1 is required to increase levels of immune checkpoints, allowing T cells to remain active longer than normal.
Researchers found that celecoxib, a widely prescribed pain and anti-inflammatory drug, slows the growth rate of neurofibromatosis type II (NF2) tumors in animal models. The study suggests that COX-2 inhibitors may have an impact on tumor formation and inflammatory responses.
Clinical trials of the anti-cancer agent PAC-1 are continuing to expand, thanks to a $7 million angel investment. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted PAC-1 orphan drug status for the treatment of glioblastoma multiforme, a deadly brain cancer with limited therapeutic options.
Researchers at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center identified a novel treatment option for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) by targeting vitamin D and androgen receptors. This approach showed promising results in reducing the sustainability of cancer cells, offering new hope for patients with this aggressive form of breast cancer.
A new research paper by GMU and Inova Health System highlights the importance of proteins in personalized medicine, particularly in cancer treatment. The study suggests that targeting proteins can lead to more effective treatments for patients with metastatic breast cancer.
Researchers have identified a chemical compound eCF506 that effectively blocks breast cancer cell growth, targeting a specific molecule required for tumor progression. The findings suggest eCF506 may be more effective and have fewer side effects than existing drugs, with further studies needed to confirm its potential.
A new study reveals that suppressing a key protein, Chitinase 3-like-1 (CHI3L1), restores multiple antitumor responses in the lungs of mice, preventing cancer spread. Researchers tested an intervention that boosted the RIG-like helicase pathway, which counteracts CHI3L1's effects and decreases tumor-inducing responses.
A study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention found that adolescent girls with high saturated-fat diets and low unsaturated-fat intake had higher breast densities, which may increase their risk for breast cancer later in life. The researchers analyzed data from 177 women and observed a significant association betwee...
A new study using mice and lab-grown human cells shows a triple-drug cocktail can shrink triple-negative breast cancers by killing off cancer cells and halting new tumor growth. The combination treatment, EAD therapy, reduced the size of tumors in mice and decreased tumor growth in spheres grown from patients' metastatic cells.
A new study shows success with a combination therapy of the sugar 2-Deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG) and fenofibrate, which selectively starves slow-growing cancer cells while sparing normal cells. This approach eliminates toxic chemotherapy side effects, paving the way for non-toxic treatments for various cancers.
Researchers designed a novel mTOR inhibitor, Rapalink, to combat drug-resistant tumors. In animal experiments, Rapalink reduced the size of tumors resistant to earlier-generation inhibitors.
A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine found that higher levels of leisure-time physical activity were associated with lower risks for 13 types of cancers. The analysis included 1.4 million participants and 186,932 cancers identified during a median of 11 years of follow-up.
The 2016 Asia Pacific Lung Cancer Conference presented the latest advances in lung cancer research, including immunotherapy and multidisciplinary practices. Tobacco use was also a major concern, with experts emphasizing the need for stricter control measures to reduce deaths from lung cancer in Southeast Asia.
Researchers are exploring genetically modified pigs as a valuable alternative to rodent models for cancer research, leveraging precision-genetics and genetic similarities between swine and humans. This approach could lead to more accurate modeling of the disease and identification of effective treatments.
A new blood marker, FCGR2A, identifies patients with metastatic colorectal cancer who will benefit from the drug cetuximab. The discovery helps personalize cancer medicine for those with colorectal disease, improving treatment outcomes.
Researchers have found that a specific blood marker is common among patients with a subset of metastatic colorectal cancer, increasing their chances of responding to the drug. This breakthrough builds on an international clinical trial and could lead to more effective treatment options for patients running out of time.
A genetic variation in the VAC14 gene is highly associated with docetaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy in prostate cancer patients. This finding could lead to more personalized treatment approaches and reduced side effects.
A single defect in a histone gene has been linked to pediatric cancers, with researchers finding that the mutation can form a tumor on its own. The discovery could lead to new treatment options for metastatic breast cancer and provide insights into human development.
Dr. Nita Maihle is leading a national DOD initiative to support early career ovarian cancer investigators. The program aims to foster team science and improve understanding of the disease. With a focus on secretory cells that line the fallopian tubes, researchers hope to develop targeted therapies for this deadly form of cancer.
A new study links MS drug mitoxantrone to an increased risk of colorectal cancer, with patients treated with the medication being three times more likely to develop the disease. However, the overall rate of cancer was low enough that the researchers suggest continuing its use for severely affected patients.
Researchers have identified genetic variations in the PKC alpha enzyme that boost its activity and contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease. These variants were found in five families with late-onset Alzheimer's disease and are associated with increased PKC alpha activity.
Scientists at Scripps Research Institute designed a drug candidate that targets cancer-causing RNA, eliminating side effects and reducing tumor growth. The study demonstrates a clear breakthrough in precision medicine, using computational approaches to develop designer compounds.
Researchers identified three subtypes of ACC with distinct clinical outcomes and molecular alterations. The study also found novel ACC driver genes and suggests that inhibiting whole genome doubling could slow tumor growth. These findings may inform therapeutic decisions and lead to significant advances in patient outcomes.
Researchers found more than half of the genes studied showed sex-biased signatures in certain cancer types, revealing two sex-effect groups associated with distinct incidence and mortality profiles. These findings lay a critical foundation for precision cancer medicine that is sex-specific.
Researchers at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center have developed an animal model of multiple myeloma, allowing them to better understand its mechanisms and test potential treatments. The study has the potential to improve outcomes for patients with this incurable disease.
Researchers at UC San Diego School of Medicine showed ozanimod moderately effective in treating ulcerative colitis. Ozanimod reduced rectal bleeding and healed intestinal mucosal lining.
Researchers identified 43 genes with autism susceptibility also linked to cancer, potentially leading to repurposed treatments. Common biological mechanisms may enable personalized medicines for neurodevelopmental disorders.
Medical errors are a leading cause of death in the US, with estimates suggesting 210,000 to 400,000 deaths per year among hospital patients. Experts call for better reporting and strategies to reduce medical errors, including making errors more visible and having remedies at hand.
Researchers warn that herbal remedies containing Aristolochia, used for over 2,000 years, can lead to kidney cancer and other health issues in genetically susceptible individuals. The authors call for global action to evaluate the safety and efficacy of botanical products.
Dr. Peter Jones, Chief Scientific Officer at Van Andel Research Institute, has been elected to the National Academy of Sciences for his outstanding contributions to cancer research and epigenomics. His work focuses on developing novel approaches to cancer treatment and alleviating suffering from the disease.
A study by Sebastian Salas-Vega and Elias Mossialos found a wide variation in the value of cancer drugs across 9 countries, with the US spending more than others but witnessing one of the smallest improvements in cancer-related mortality. The authors calculated a $32.6 billion net positive return from cancer drug care in the US in 2014.
The primary method used to test compounds for anti-cancer activity in cells is flawed, according to a study by Vanderbilt University researchers. They have developed a new metric to evaluate a compound's effect on cell proliferation called the DIP rate, which overcomes the flawed bias in traditional methods.
A new study found that drinking water from private wells, especially those established before the 1950s, may contribute to elevated bladder cancer risk in Maine, New Hampshire, and Vermont. The researchers estimated that increasing cumulative arsenic exposure was associated with an increased risk of bladder cancer.
Researchers have found that Hsp90 inhibitors specifically target and inactivate a mechanism used by prostate cancer cells to evade standard treatment. The findings suggest that these drugs could be effective in treating prostate cancers that have become resistant to treatment and started spreading.
The International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) highlights significant progress in lung cancer prevention, diagnosis, staging, and treatment in 2015. The organization introduces a comprehensive educational resource covering topics such as tobacco control, early detection, and immunotherapy.
Cancer drug costs have increased by six times over the past decade, with newly approved medications costing an average of $11,325 per month, compared to $1,869 for those introduced in 2000. This trend may impact patients' ability to access these drugs and their financial burden.
A recent cancer diagnosis was associated with an increased risk of mental health disorders, including depression and anxiety, peaking in the first week after diagnosis. The study also found increased use of psychiatric medications among patients with cancer, remaining elevated two years post-diagnosis.
A new University of Illinois study reveals that the shape of a tumor may play a significant role in determining whether cells can metastasize. The research found that curved edges and corners activate cancer stem cells, which are responsible for spreading cancer to other tissues.
Researchers at Scripps Research Institute identify structural changes in estrogen receptor binding molecules linked to regulating cancer growth. The study reveals predictive features of ligand-specific signaling through the receptor, moving closer to developing more effective treatments for breast cancer.
Researchers have discovered a potential treatment for sepsis and other responses to infection by using tiny doses of a cancer drug. The new treatment may benefit millions worldwide who are affected by infections and pandemics.
Tumor cells switch to glycolysis, a form of anaerobic energy production, allowing them to continue growing even without new blood vessels. This discovery opens up new possibilities for long-term cancer treatments by inhibiting anaerobic energy production or transport of lactic acid.
A clinical trial shows that high-dose methotrexate improves survival rates for children with high-risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia. The use of steroid decadron is beneficial for younger patients, but not older ones, who are at a higher risk of osteonecrosis.
Researchers have uncovered a novel function of the gene PLK1 that promotes prostate cancer cell migration and metastasis through epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT). This discovery challenges previous understanding and highlights new potential targets for cancer therapies.
A new study identifies a small molecule that simultaneously inhibits signaling pathways activated by mutated RAS oncogenes, representing a new paradigm for targeting this elusive cancer gene. The discovery has significant implications for the treatment of RAS-driven cancers.
Researchers identified gene alterations that may explain treatment resistance in TNBC, suggesting a potential role for JAK2 inhibitors. The study found that JAK2 amplification was more frequent in chemotherapy-treated tumors and associated with poorer outcomes.
In a clinical trial, half of 25 patients with Merkel cell carcinoma experienced substantial tumor shrinkage lasting nearly three times as long as conventional chemotherapy. Several patients had no remaining evidence of disease. The results suggest that immunotherapy drugs may be effective for other virus-associated cancers.
A phase 2 clinical trial of pembrolizumab as a first-line systemic therapy for advanced Merkel cell carcinoma found that the treatment produced an objective response rate of 56% and sustained responses in 86% of patients. The study suggests that immunotherapy may be a promising approach for this aggressive type of skin cancer.
A 20-month-old girl's tumor regression shows promising evidence of the potential for LOXO-101 to provide significant benefit for pediatric patients with NTRK gene fusions. The patient achieved a 90% reduction in tumor size after receiving an experimental treatment.
Researchers at Baylor College of Medicine developed a new class of small molecule drug SI-2 that accelerates the destruction of cancer signaling molecule SRC-3, leading to slower cell proliferation and migration. The study suggests SI-2 has potential for improving cancer treatment with low toxicity to normal cells and animals.
Research found that delaying radiation therapy after surgery increases the risk of recurrent tumors in women with stage 0 breast cancer. Women who received radiation within eight weeks had a lower rate of recurrence compared to those who delayed treatment. The study suggests that timely radiation therapy is crucial for reducing the ris...
A recent study reveals that cancer patients and families perceive palliative care as synonymous with death, despite its benefits in improving quality of life. The researchers call for a rebranding of palliative care to address the stigma and promote earlier access to supportive care.
Researchers developed a new computer algorithm called REVEALER to identify groups of genetic variations associated with cancer cell activation and treatment responses. Using large tumor genomics database The Cancer Genome Atlas, REVEALER revealed new gene mutations linked to cancer development and treatment resistance.